Biology Flashcards
What is genetics?
The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.
What is the role of DNA in genetics?
DNA carries the genetic information necessary for the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all living organisms.
Who is considered the father of genetics?
Gregor Mendel.
What is a gene?
A segment of DNA that contains the instructions for building a specific protein or set of proteins.
What are alleles?
Different versions of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome.
What is a Punnett square?
A diagram used to predict the outcome of a genetic cross by showing the possible combinations of alleles.
What is the difference between homozygous and heterozygous?
Homozygous: two identical alleles for a trait; Heterozygous: two different alleles for a trait.
What is the difference between dominant and recessive alleles?
Dominant alleles express their trait even in the presence of a recessive allele; Recessive alleles express their trait only when two copies are present.
What is a genotype?
The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by the alleles it possesses.
What is a phenotype?
The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, determined by its genotype.
What is the purpose of a test cross?
To determine the genotype of an organism showing a dominant phenotype by crossing it with a homozygous recessive organism.
What is a genetic disorder?
A disease caused by an abnormality in an individual’s DNA.
What is an example of an autosomal recessive disorder?
Cystic fibrosis.
What is an example of an autosomal dominant disorder?
Huntington’s disease.
How do sex-linked disorders differ from autosomal disorders?
Sex-linked disorders are associated with genes located on sex chromosomes, while autosomal disorders are associated with genes on non-sex chromosomes.
What is an example of a sex-linked disorder?
Hemophilia.
What is a mutation?
A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the structure and function of proteins.
How can mutations lead to genetic disorders?
Mutations can disrupt normal gene function, leading to improper protein production and resulting in disease.
How do genetics influence traits in organisms?
Genetics determines the inherited traits that are expressed in an organism’s phenotype.
What is an example of a real-world application of genetics?
Gene therapy to treat genetic disorders.
How can genetic research benefit medicine?
By identifying genetic predispositions to diseases, enabling personalized medicine and targeted therapies.
How does genetic variation contribute to evolution?
Genetic variation provides the raw material for natural selection to act upon, leading to evolutionary changes over time.
What is selective breeding?
The process of breeding plants and animals for particular genetic traits.
How is selective breeding different from natural selection?
Selective breeding is a human-directed process, while natural selection occurs through environmental pressures.
